Jimmy Butler has been given permission to skip the Timberwolves' media day Monday and "will not be available for on-court activities" when training camp opens next week, according to The Athletic, citing unidentified league sources.
The Timberwolves are in the middle of fielding trade inquiries for their star guard after Butler reportedly demanded a trade from Minnesota earlier this week – with the Nets, Clippers and Knicks on his short list.
Conflicting reports came out Friday as ESPN reported Minnesota's front office is shutting down trade requests from other teams. However, later in the day, ESPN also reported owner Glen Taylor had a different message, saying Butler is available and teams should contact him directly.
Butler has two years remaining on the five-year, $92 million deal he signed with the Bulls in 2015. He was traded to the Timberwolves before last season. However, Butler can opt out after this season.
Butler averaged 22.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.9 assists last season for Minnesota, which made the playoffs for the first time since 2004.
